About Solar Power International
Event History
Solar Power International (SPI), previously called Solar Power Conference and Expo, was created in 2004 when the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) joined together in partnership to fill an obvious void: the US was missing a business-to-business solar conference and expo. With an industry growth rate of more than 40% per year, there was a need for a single event where industry could come together with potential customers, policymakers, investors, and other parties necessary for continued rapid growth. It didn't take long for the event to establish itself as the premiere solar event in the US, growing from 1,100 attendees to over 22,500 in just 5 years!
What Makes this Event Stand out from Other Solar or Renewable Energy Events?
There are many existing and new solar events popping up around the US. So why should your company use its resources to participate in this one?
First, Solar Power International has established itself as the only "must attend" solar event in the US. It is the largest solar conference and expo in the US, currently by a factor of more than 5, and attracts the widest range of professional attendees. The event also educates consumers through a one-night public opening of the expo hall.
Second, the money you spend to attend Solar Power International is used to support the industry and grow US solar markets. Proceeds from the event go to SEPA and SEIA, the 2 non-profit presenters, and are used to support the organizations' year-round activities. Many other solar events in the US are put on by for-profit groups.
What are People Saying About this Event?
- 95.9% of attendees report they will recommend this event to a friend.
- 86% of attendees rate SPI this event as better than other energy conferences they have attended.
- 2008 attendees reported they expect to spend US$3.9 billion with exhibitors over the next 12 months.
Solar Power International Attendance
*projected
Who Exhibits?
Like the number of event attendees, the number of exhibitors has increased significantly over the years as well. Approximately 750 companies will exhibit at SPI 2009, including cell and module manufacturers, inverter and other component manufacturers, material and equipment manufacturers, installers, integrators, and investors. Click here to search through our exhibitor list. A list of the companies that exhibited at SPI 2008 is available in our archives section.
Who Attends?
Solar Power International attracts a wide range of participants both from inside and outside the solar industry. 40% of registered attendees hold CEO, president or other executive management positions. 79% of registered attendees recommend or make final decisions about their company's purchase of products.
The attendees come from all segments of the solar value chain including manufacturers, integrators and installers, large and small customers, architects and builders, and policymakers.